I feel privileged to have received an advance look at Susan Emshwiller’s new novel, coming this April 2024 from PineHead Press. I’m happy to say, it lives up to its stellar title in every facet.
Elizabeth Gaston is an unusual breed of ugly duckling, an amalgam of her ancestors’ worst genetic imprints. The poor, ungainly gal is flagrantly snubbed and smeared by her family. When her perfect younger brother arrives, the contrast only amplifies her peculiarities. By the time a teenaged rebellion emerges, “Izzy” somehow finds the strength to reject her highfalutin parents’ belittling, and kidnaps her sibling to save him from cementing his current snobbish, ultra-privileged mien.
What ensues is a rollicking, rocket’s blast chase caper, jammed with rich characters and affecting insights into the human condition. AMAHS delivers a delightfully inventive cross-country thrill ride loaded with surprises and PTSD.